Rail stacks up well against other modes of transportation
These two items should need no explanation.
Rail vs. Bus Transit
| ATTRIBUTE | BUS TRANSIT | RAIL TRANSIT |
| Energy Consumption (Fuel Economy) | 180-330 Passenger Miles per Gallon or Equivalent | 600-900 Passenger Miles per Gallon or Equivalent |
| Vehicle Life | 12 Years | 25-40 Years |
| Right-Of-Way Life | 30 Years | 30-50 Years |
| Security | Driver Stuck With The Job (Divided attention) | Transit Cop Can Ride Train |
| Independence From Traffic | Generally None | Moderate to Nearly Total, Depending On Track Separation |
| Operating Cost Recovery (From Fares) | 20-25% | 50-100% |
| Role In Development | Routes Can Be Moved On Short Notice | Permanent Route Fosters Long-Term Planning |
| Matching Capacity To Demand | Add More Busses, Each with Its Own Driver and security | Add or Remove Cars as Needed |
| Public Acceptance | Avoided By Most People Who Can Afford A Choice | Popular With All Ages, Colors and Income Levels |
Rail vs. All Comers
